Houston Car Accident Leads to Teacher’s Arrest

A Houston car accident leaves an 8-year-old child fatally injured and a school teacher facing serious charges. The incident took place on Monday, March 22, 2010, in Bear Creek Park.

According to authorities, the incident occurred when an 8-year-old girl ran onto War Memorial Drive in Bear Creek Park and was struck by a sport utility vehicle (SUV). The victim has been identified as Destiny Garcia. Rescue crews transported Garcia to a nearby hospital where she was pronounced dead the following day.

Witnesses reported that the driver of the SUV, Vilma Rivas Buchala, 43, of Houston, fled the accident scene. However, Buchala’s attorney notified police the following day of her involvement in the fatal accident.

She told police that she left the accident scene because she was afraid that she would be harmed by an angry mob.

Buchala is a teacher at St. Jerome Catholic School in Houston and is married to a veteran Houston police officer. She was charged with felony hit and run.

The fatal Houston auto accident is still under investigation by local authorities.

This is a terrible accident and our thoughts and condolences go out to all of those who have been affected by the loss of this little girl.